There are many fears and misunderstandings about the use of hypnosis and hypnotherapy, and the myths and mystery that surround it are totally undeserved. This page will help to reassure you that what happens is very normal, certainly non-magical, with generally predictable results.

Hypnosis is usually induced by the use of the therapist's voice, though you are unlikely to actually feel hypnotised. There is no such thing as a 'hypnotised feeling', though many people find their senses to be far more alert than usual - you will certainly not 'lose control' at any time, nor can you be manipulated in any way.

There is no form of unconsciousness and nobody can be made to do anything that they do not want to do; a person in hypnosis is aware of everything happening around them, aware of themselves and their therapist, and will retain a full and accurate memory of everything afterwards.

Hypnosis, a totally natural phenomenon, is simply a very comfortable and relaxed state during which it is quite easy to converse sensibly with the therapist. Almost anyone can enter the hypnotic state easily, with the exceptions of the truly mentally ill (eg. psychotics, schizophrenia, brain defects either birth or brought about by accident, very young children, and anybody under the influence of hard drugs or very large quantities of alcohol. You will be advised if hypnotherapy is not suitable for you. It is inconceivable that any harm could befall anybody in this pleasant state.

This is a reliable and safe therapeutic technique which is centuries old and is recognised by many branches of orthodox medicine as a valuable alternative to drugs, to accelerate healing, and to help combat pain.

Whilst not a panacea for all ills, hypnotherapy can be an effective treatment method for a great many problems where psychological factors are involved.